Is the Sony a1 II the Master of Everything?

The Sony a1 II is a full-frame mirrorless high-resolution camera packed full of the latest technology, including a new AI Processing Unit making it a must for professional photographers and videographers. Its 50 MP Exmor RS stacked sensor is capable of capturing images at up to 30 fps with blackout-free shooting as well as stunning video at 8K 30p or 4K at up to 120p.

We sent Ben out into the wilds of Worcester armed only with the new Sony a 1II and 28-70mm f2 GM Lens to find out if it lives up to Sony's claim of being the "Master of Everything"!

Watch the full video below for a first look.

Key Features

The Sony a1 II comes packed full of features that are sure to appeal to videographers and photographers alike. At the heart of the camera is a 50.1 MP Exmor RS stacked sensor and BIONZ XR processor which allows for image capture of up to 30fps, blackout-free as well as the ability to capture 8K video at up to 30P and 4K video at up to 120P for buttery smooth slow-motion footage. The a1 II features a new AI Processing unit for better subject recognition along with new pre-capture and continuous speed boosting to ensure that you always get the image you are after.

The camera fatures an improved 8.5-stops of In-body-image-stabilisation for greater performance in low-light situations as well as smoother footage while capturing video along with S-Cinetone and in-camera LUT import capabilities which is fantastic news for videographers and vloggers.

Other useful features include a 4-axis monitor for more flexibility in difficult-to-shoot situations, a sharp 9.44 M-dot EVF with deep eyecup, an ergonomic grip, an anti-dust system, extended battery life and a wealth of connections including a 3.5mm mic jack, headphone out jack, a USB-C 3.2 port which can also be used for charging on the go and a full-size HDMI-A port. Lastly, we have dual slots for SDXC and CFexpress Type A cards.

Resolution

The resolution of this camera is truly outstanding thanks to the 50.1MP Exmor RS stacked sensor. This is paired with the BIONZ XR Image Processor to ensure outstanding image quality, accurate colours and low noise even when shooting at mid to high ISOs.

Speed

The a1 II offers the ability to capture high-resolution images at up to 30 fps with blackout-free shooting but of course, that would mean nothing without great autofocus. Luckily the mark II features 759 phase-detection AF points covering 92% of the sensor along with a new AI processing unit to aid with subject recognition. The camera is also capable of up to 1 second of pre-capture to ensure that you always get the shot.

IBIS

It is safe to say that the 8.5-stops of IBIS was incredibley useful in the low-lit areas of the cathedral allowing me to capture razor-sharp images even at lower shutter speeds. . The camera also features 2 new Composite RAW features that give you the ability to capture images at up to 200 MP resolution or reduce noise for cleaner images. Even ISOs as high as 25600 or 40000 are still usable.

ISO 800
ISO 25600
ISO 40000

8K and 4K video

The a1 II is a must for professional videographers due to its ability to capture stunning video. It is possible to capture 8K footage at up to 30p or 4K at up to 120p with a professional 4:2:2 10-bit codec. You can produce a cinematic look with S-CINETONE, create your own LUTs with the in-camera LUT import feature or record in S-LOG 3 for even greater options in post-production.

Sony FE 28-70mm f2 GM Lens

The lens features a large, constant F2 Aperture throughout the entirety of the zoom length along with precise, smooth and silent autofocus as well as minimal focus breathing which is especially useful for videographers and macro work. This is further aided by a close focus distance of just 38cm, again throughout the entirety of the zoom length.

The construction of the lens consists of three super ED lenses, one extra-low dispersion lens and 3 XA extreme aspherical lens elements. This construction offers reduced colour fringing and chromatic aberration. The added Nanon A coating mark II helps to reduce ghosting and lens flare.

The lens has two focus hold buttons for control in both landscape and portrait positions and is weather-sealed, offering protection against dust and moisture.

We also have customisable zoom rotation speed and de-clicked aperture controls as well as support for shooting at up to 120 frames per second.

Key Features

50.1 MP Exmor RS stacked sensor
BIONZ XR processor
New AI Processing Unit
8.5-stop in-body stabilisation
2 new Composite RAW features
Up to 30 fps blackout-free shooting
8K 30p
4K 120p
Pre-Capture
Continuous Speed Boosting
4-axis monitor
S-CINETONE
LUT import capabilities

Find out more about the Sony a 1II.

Convinced yet?

The Sony a1 II and Sony FE 28-70mm f2 GM Lens are both available for pre-order now:

Thank you!

Thanks for taking the time to read our blog, we really do hope they help you out and answer some of your questions. If you still have some unanswered, then please feel free to get in touch with our team of experts.

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By Ben Wright
19 Dec 2024